Hmong Voices and Memories: An Exploration of Identity, Culture, and History through Bamboo among the Oaks: Contemporary Writing by Hmong Americans
Author(s):
Her, Vincent K.; Buley-meissner, Louise
Format:
Journal article
Citation:
Journal Of Asian American Studies, Volume 13, Issue 1 (2010-02). pp. 35-58.
Language:
English
Abstract:
A collection of prose/poetry titled, Bamboo among the Oaks: Contemporary Writings by Hmong Americans, is used to explore changes in the Hmong-American community. Most of the contributors are second- or third-generation Hmong Americans born in the Midwest. Special attention is given to the voices of young Hmong Americans who are eager to have their perspectives & convictions taken seriously by their families, their communities, & people at large. Although the Hmong originally left China to resist assimilation & want to be left alone in the US, younger, college-educated Hmong-Americans no longer wish to be restricted to an isolated Hmong enclave. Emphasis is placed on the importance of memory in t he development of both individual & collective identities. Differences between the memories of first & second generation individuals are examined. Although the second- or third-generation contributors to this collection value their cultural heritage, they also recognize its limitations & boundaries. Numerous quotations from the book are included. J. Lindroth